Top Cruise Club

Holland America Line Launches Explorations Team

Ashley — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 20:18:11 +0000

With today’s traveler looking for more enriching experiences and activities, Holland America Line has broadened its onboard programming with the new Explorations Team. As part of the premium line’s ongoing Signature of Excellence initiative, the Explorations Team will be comprised of event staff with specific, niche expertise ranging from technology to travel who will offer guests a menu of “edutainment” programs.

The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be a cohesive team dedicated to enhancing the overall cruise experience and includes an onboard party planner, a travel guide, a “techspert” and dance directors. On cruises lasting 12-days or more, a book club leader will also join the team.

“People learn through experience and our guests are looking for programs, events and activities they can personally connect with,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. “Our goal is not only to entertain guests but to offer them the opportunity to learn a new skill or discover something about a new port or country; the choice is theirs, and the Explorations Team is in place to facilitate that choice.”

The onboard party planner will schedule, implement and host events in the Culinary Arts Center, significantly expanding the innovative program which already brings more than 70 culinary experts on board each year for cooking demonstrations and seminars. The line has invested more than $14 million in the professional show kitchens found on each ship and will use the space for more activities such as wine tasting, craft classes, floral arranging, and table and lifestyle presentations such as creating the line’s beloved towel animals.

The travel guide will host lectures and be a one-stop source for information on the various ports of call. A destination expert, the travel guide will be available throughout the cruise to interact with guests on a one-on-one basis, answer questions, and give presentations on the destination’s history, culture and geography. On Grand Voyages and on ms Prinsendam, rotating guest speakers fill the role of travel guide.

The “techspert” will be on hand to teach guests how to take advantage of technology, whether helping guests make the most of their vacation photos, arranging a digital scrapbook, blogging, creating a slideshow or editing a movie. Classes and personal workshops will be available throughout the cruise. Novices can learn about web 2.0 and how to work with digital photos. Those with more experience will enjoy the opportunity to learn new shortcuts and techniques.

Dance directors show guests how to dance the night away. Classes are available throughout each cruise. Whether teaching line dancing in the Crow’s Nest or ballroom dancing in the Ocean Bar, the dance instructors will ensure guests of all experience levels enjoy themselves while learning new steps. After class, guests will find dance events on the ship’s activity schedule where they may show off their new moves.

On cruises lasting 12 or more days, a book club leader will host lively book discussions in the Explorations Café powered by the New York Times. Book titles will be posted online before the cruise so guests interested in joining the discussion will have time to read the chosen book. The book club leader will plan and facilitate two to three discussions for each book. Books chosen will relate to the sailing destination whether by author or topic. For example, on an Australian itinerary the book may be “In a Sunburned Country” by Bill Bryson or in Asia, ‘Saving Fish from Drowning: A Novel by Amy Tan.”

With the addition of this new team of experts, Holland America Line guests now will have even more memories to take home from their cruise plus the personal experiences that have enriched their lives to share with family and friends. The Holland America Line Explorations Team will be implemented fleet-wide.

This $200-million phase in the Signature of Excellence commitment brings the latest innovations at sea to Holland America Line’s ms Statendam, ms Maasdam, ms Ryndam, ms Veendam and ms Rotterdam. The first of the extensive dry-dock periods begins with the Veendam in spring 2009 and the last will be completed on the Maasdam in late 2010. While in dry-dock, ships will expand the aft deck to create a new resort pool concept, The Retreat, and create a new bar concept called Mix that features separate areas - Martinis, Champagne and Spirits & Ales. Enhancements will be made to all existing staterooms and additional staterooms will be added to the ships. The ships will also introduce 46 innovative lanai staterooms with direct access to the Lower Promenade Deck. New spa staterooms near the Greenhouse Spa and Salon will offer special in-room spa amenities. Overall Holland America Line has committed $525 million to its Signature of Excellence program that redefines premium cruising.

About Top Cruise Club

Top Cruise Club is an online community of avid and new cruisers who have come together to maximize their cruising experience. We provide you with the latest cruise news, ship reviews, information about popular destinations, and exceptional cruise value. You can also book your next cruise online or on the phone through your own Member Concierge. Top Cruise Clubs provides its members with all their cruising needs. Join Top Cruise Club’s free membership program, which provides you with an array of benefits, like FREE travel insurance. Click here to join now!

Carnival Destiny Visits the Re-Opened Grand Turk Center

Ashley — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 19:38:59 +0000

The Grand Turk Cruise Center - closed since the passing of Hurricane Ike last month - today welcomed its first cruise ship, the 2,642-passenger Carnival Destiny.

Carnival Destiny guests had an opportunity to swim in the facility’s massive swimming pool, relax on an 800-foot-long private beach, and dine at the on-site Margaritaville restaurant and lounge. The facility’s various shops were open, as well.

Numerous shore excursions were also available, including Gibbs Key tour, dune buggy rentals, swimming with horses, and fishing and snorkeling expeditions. The previously offered hop on/hop off bus tour is currently operating as a post-hurricane island tour. Guests are charged a nominal fee for the tour and provided with a pledge card should they wish to donate to the United Way’s Grand Turk hurricane relief fund.

Shipboard employees are also participating in a beach clean-up initiative to assist in the island’s recovery.

The $60 million Grand Turk Cruise Center opened in 2006 and has become one of the cruise industry’s most popular Caribbean cruise destinations. The 13-acre facility serves as a gateway to the pristine island of Grand Turk, which in addition to magnificent beaches, is world renowned for diving, snorkeling, fishing and other watersports.

Top Cruise Club got in contact with a past cruise passenger who visited Grand Turk prior to the hurricane. Rosaline White had nothing but good things to say about this wonderful cruise center-”If you want a great place to kick back and relax for the whole family, then Margaritaville at Grand Turk is the place. The fun never stops. The pool is truly cool with lots of different areas to play in (as well as a swim-up bar). There is a great D.J. and the music never stops. Games and contests are there for your participation as well as a ’surfing pool.’ And the beach is beautiful with warm breezes and comfortable lounges.”

Princess Cruises’ Crown Princess is the next cruise ship to call at the Grand Turk Cruise Center on Oct. 10.

About Top Cruise Club

Smart Ways to Save While Cruising

Ashley — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:28:29 +0000

Today, more than ever, you are able to find amazing cruise vacation deals onboard most cruise lines. For instance, Norwegian Cruise Lines has fares as low as $99 for a 4-day Bahamas cruise. Ridiculously low prices are popping up everywhere. So for those budget travelers, who love cruising or thought about cruising, this is a dream come true. However, I would like you to know that after your cruise fare is paid in full, you will find other costs onboard that are not covered in the fare. I am here to tell you that they are not drastic. I just want you to be informed of what is NOT included in your cruise fare, and plan your cruise budget accordingly.

Beverages

Yes, it is true. Most beverages onboard your cruise are not covered by the cruise fare. For example soda (soft drink beverages) run around $2 to $2.50 per drink, which could cause a dent in your bill at the end of the cruise. Especially if you are a family of four, and your children are avid soda lovers. Other beverages not included in cost are bottled water and some specialty coffees. Specialty coffees are those fancy coffee drinks made famous by Starbucks, which include lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, expresso etc.

Budget Advice: Even though sodas aren’t free, that does not mean you have to pay for every drink purchased. Cruise lines have developed soda cards that can run about $4 to $6 per day, giving you unlimited access to all the soft drinks you love! Also, to help with the cost of water bottles, I would suggest bringing your own water bottle onboard and just filling it up at the water fountains located near the buffets.

What is included: Beverages that you can find at the buffets, such as orange juice, apple juice, regular coffee, and fountain water.

Alcohol

This shouldn’t shock a lot of you. Alcohol is one of the main things that can drive up a cruise bill. After all you are on vacation, and alcoholic beverages can add to your relaxation. And I am not talking just liquor here. Included in this is wine and beer. There is really no average cost per drink as costs depend on what type of drink you purchase (just like everywhere else).

Budget Advice: Cruise lines, except Royal Caribbean, have not come out with an unlimited alcohol cards like they have for sodas (sorry to burst bubbles). The policy on Royal Caribbean for unlimited drinking packages only pertains to groups. You must have a group of 50 or more people, aged 21+, to receive a $49 a day unlimited drink card. That is pretty good considering drinks on average cost $8. Not in a 50+ group? Well you are in luck because there are ways you can save when it comes to your alcohol purchases.

For Wine: At dinner, instead of ordering wine by the glass, I would suggest ordering a whole bottle. Most likely if you order wine the first night, you will end up ordering a glass every night after that. Also, when you order the bottle, you aren’t expected to consume it the same night. Your waiter will store it for you until the bottle is emptied. An average glass of wine on a cruise cost around $8+. However, the average bottle cost in the $20s. Most bottles can give you around 4 glasses of wine. So do the math!

For Beer: Buckets of beer by the pool can save a few bucks. Even though buckets can seem absurdly priced for 5 bottles, it will save money compared to purchasing each bottle separately. If you don’t drink all of them, save them. You can always refill the bucket with ice for free another day.

For Liquor: This is simple…Don’t order from the top shelf.

What is included: No alcohol is included. Sorry folks. Unless you book a cruise on a luxury cruise line (Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Sea Dream Yacht Club and Seabourn Cruise Line). But the cruise costs for a luxury cruise line is more expensive than a voyage onboard a Carnival Cruise or Royal Caribbean cruise ship.

Gratuities

It’s always nice to say thank you for good service, therefore the cruise lines have made it easy instead of tipping throughout the cruise sailing. On the last day of the cruise your cabin steward will leave a sheet of paper, with envelopes, that specifies how much gratuity is recommended to give to each of the people who took care of you (costs will range, depending on who to tip, from $2 to $7 per day) This includes, but not limited to room attendant, waiter’s assistant and head waiter. Also, whenever you purchase anything from the bar, or from a pool attendant, gratuities are automatically added to your bill.

Budget Advice: There really is no way to save on gratuities. You tip in non-vacation life for service, so why should it be different on a cruise? But the amount you give should depend on the service you received, that I won’t argue.

What is included: Sometimes cruise lines will automatically add service charges to your cruise bill. If you want to give tips on your own accord, then you can go to the purser’s desk and have them remove the gratuity that was automatically added. That way at the end of your cruise you can tip however much you feel is necessary per services received.

Specialty Restaurants

Ok, so to avoid any confusion, a specialty restaurant is a restaurant on a ship that caters to a particular cuisine. You generally have to make reservations ahead of time as they have limited seating. That means, you have to physically go to the restaurant on the first day of your cruise (or any other day), to reserve your spot. There is a minimal charge for dining at specialty restaurants onboard. You may ask why? These restaurants serve gourmet food, which is a little different from the general dining on cruises. I recommend trying one. It is definitely worth spending a little extra money.

Budget Advice: If there is a restaurant that really seems to tickle your fancy, reserve one night to try their menu options. But do not forget about the free food that is at your disposal the entire cruise. In my opinion, the main dining meals are delicious with 5 star quality.

What is included: Main dining areas, buffets, and 24 hour pizza. Trust me, if you want to save money, you will not run out of food options that were already paid for in your cruise fare.

Spa Amenities/Beauty Salon/Fitness Center Classes

You didn’t think that massages and facials were included in your cruise fare, did you? Well they aren’t, unfortunately. And neither are some fitness classes, such as spinning or yoga. Let’s not forget about the fabulous beauty salon they have onboard where you can get your hair done, as well as pedicures and manicures. Nope, not included as well.

So what are the cost of these added luxuries? Spa items, such as massages, facials, body masks etc, can run you anywhere from $70 to $250 per session. For fitness classes, some cruise lines have them included in your fare, but you must reserve a spot in the class before attending. If they do not include the classes, they aren’t that expensive. Anywhere between $10 to $15 per class. And finally, the beauty salon, where last minute hair changes can make all the difference. Services in the beauty salon can run anywhere between $20 for a manicure, to $150 for a hair cut and dye job.

Budget Advice: The spas onboard are known for having discounts throughout the cruises’ duration. The discounts usually take place during the time the ship is at port, not while it is sailing. So if you do not mind staying onboard for a few hours while at port, then this route for a spa discount is best! Also, sometimes cruise lines will have spa drawings if you take a tour on the first day of the cruise. Check your cruise itinerary right when you get onboard to see if they are giving spa tours plus drawings. The beauty salon works the same way when it comes to discounts. Also, prior to sailing speak to your Member Concierge about coupon booklets and past passenger discounts. They are not always available, but always good to ask.

What is included: Jogging track, fitness center machines, some fitness classes, and on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines they have a rock climbing wall and surf simulator that is included.

Excursions

As most already know, shore excursions are not included in your cruise fare. However, these fun little side trips are worth the extra cash. They can provide you with a great way, without the planning, to see what the different ports of call have to offer. You can go tubing through caves or horseback riding in Mexico; you can see all the ancient wonders of Rome; or take a helicopter ride over Alaskan mountains. Whatever you can imagine doing, there is sure to be an excursion for you. Prices of excursions can range from $50+ per person.

Budget Advice: Limit yourself to one shore excursion at the port of call you are really excited about. This way you can splurge and take the most fun filled excursion offered. For the other ports, do your research of what there is to see. Once you have decided on the sights that really interest you, just take taxis to see them. This way you are on your own schedule, and have control of what you spend.

What is included: Onboard the ship all entertainment is included in your cruise fare. Whether it is a comedy show, Broadway shows, dance lessons, activities for the kids, activities for the adults, dancing in the night clubs, or entering in a cruise contest, all is included onboard!

Cruise Pictures

You know those fun pictures that the cruise staff take of you? Embarking, disembarking, eating dinner, learning how to salsa dance, formal night, professional photographs with beautiful backdrops….anything and everything you can be sure a photographer will be there. However, looking at them in the ship’s photo gallery is as free as they get. Pictures can run you anywhere from $10 to $50 per shot purchased (depending on the package or size of photo).

Budget Advice: At the end of the cruise, the ship usually runs specials on them! Unless you throw the photos in the discard bin, the gallery attendants will not remove them from the display until the morning of disembarkation. So wait until the last day of the cruise to get the best photo deal.

Casino

It is called gambling right? So why would the cruise ship give you any of there money to play with? Exactly. Gamble at your own risk, is what I always say.

Budget Advice: Are you feeling lucky? If not, I would not waste money that could go toward other things on your cruise vacation, like that exciting shore excursion!

What is included: Some cruise lines will offer free drinks to those who are gambling. But needless to say, anything in the casino is not included in your cruise fare.

Souvenirs

All those fun little stores onboard the ship, do not give their merchandise out for free. On top of that, nothing that is souvenir related onboard the ship is included in your cruise fare. So if you are that type of traveler that needs to bring back something to commemorate your time at sea, make sure to fit that into your budget.

Budget Advice: For souvenirs onboard the ship, wait toward the end of the cruise to see if they promote any sales. Most of the time the cruise line will have souvenirs on sale throughout the duration of the cruise, but the best sales show up at the end.

For souvenirs at the different ports of call, my advice is to bargain with the merchants (never pay full price). Unless of course you are in a Dolce and Gabana store in Italy, then bargaining will probably not pay off. I am more or less referring to markets, outside vendors, and jewelers!

Government Fees/Taxes/Fuel Surcharges

When you see cruise costs online or get cost from a travel agent, most likely it is not including the extra fees that go along with the cruise. These fees are tricky because they all depend on the cruise line and the cruises’ destination. However, I can tell you that fuel surcharges can run about $6 to $10 a day. But then again, it all depends on the cruise line.

So how do you budget when you won’t know the fees until you book? Or what about your concern with not being able to budget for all these new costs? Well, this is where Top Cruise Club comes in handy.

Top Cruise Club

Although there are other costs that could be accumulated during your cruise, don’t let it effect you purchasing the items or services you desire. After all it is a vacation, and you already invested money into it. But gaining extra value for your cruise vacation is an important opportunity you should look more into before sailing.

What do I mean by extra value?

Top Cruise Club provides its members with benefits that add value to their cruising experience. We give you free travel insurance (see our Travel Insurance Policy). We provide you with onboard credits that can be used toward extra costs onboard the ship. Also, some cruise lines allow passengers to use their onboard credits in the casino. It is like real cash! Another benefit we provide you is coupon books. They usually hold 100s of dollars in value for cruise activities, such as discounts for spa treatments and free souvenir items.

To gain access to these benefits that add value to your vacation, all you have to do is become a member at Top Cruise Club. Membership is free, so what are you waiting for? Join today and see why when you book your next cruise vacation, that It’s Better When You Belong!

About Top Cruise Club

Ashley DuFrene- Top Cruise Club Blogger

Holland America Line Announces Six-Day Scandinavia Cruises

Ashley — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:54:08 +0000

Holland America Line’s flagship, ms Rotterdam, will sail two new six-day Scandinavian itineraries in July 2009. Ideal for travelers eager for a shorter getaway, the two round-trip sailings feature spectacular scenic cruising and explore Sweden, Denmark and Norway.

“Given our legacy in Rotterdam, we are thrilled to be sailing in and out of this magnificent port, right past our original headquarters, now the Hotel New York,” said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs, Holland America Line. “It’s a unique and unforgettable experience to watch Rotterdam’s citizens cheering at our arrivals and departures.”

Departing July 18, 2009, from Rotterdam, Netherlands, the ship calls at some of the Baltic’s best-known ports: Helsingborg, Sweden; Copenhagen, Denmark and Oslo, Norway, before returning to Rotterdam. A 22-hour stay in the Danish capital enables guests to meander through the streets of Copenhagen or enjoy a leisurely dinner at a sidewalk café before returning to the ship.

The second sailing, departing Rotterdam July 24, explores the coast of Norway with calls at Flam, Bergen and Stavanger. Two days of scenic cruising in Norway - the first in Sognafjord and Aurlandsfjord, and the second at Lysefjord and Pulpit Rock - will delight nature enthusiasts and amateur photographers alike.

“These new six-day cruises are perfect for the traveler who wants a shorter premium vacation and to discover some of Scandinavia’s most beautiful and memorable towns and seascapes,” added Meadows.

12-Day cruise-or an 18-day Collectors’ Voyage - available for those who wish to explore Baltic in more depth
Holland America Line also offers two extended cruise options for those who want to see more of Northern Europe and to receive a more in-depth discovery of Scandinavia and the Baltic.

Departing on July 18, guests can combine the two six-day itineraries for a 12-day cruise that sails to a variety of ports and includes scenic cruising through Norway’s most picturesque fjords and has only one overlapping call at Rotterdam.

The six day, July 24 sailing, can be combined with the following 12-day, July 30 sailing, for an 18-day Collectors’ Voyage. The Collectors’ Voyage includes calls at Oslo, Norway, Århus, Denmark, Warnemünde (Berlin), Germany, Tallinn, Estonia, and two days in St. Petersburg, Russia. While in St. Petersburg, guests will have plenty of time to explore such iconic treasures as the Hermitage Museum, the palace of Czarina Catherine the Great and the cathedrals of St. Petersburg. The Collectors’ Voyage then continues its journey to Helsinki, Finland, Stockholm, Sweden, scenic cruising of Stockholm Archipelago and disembarks in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The Holland America Line premium cruise experience At the heart of every Holland America cruise is a warm and award-winning style of service. With As You Wish dining®, the onboard culinary experience gives options to suit every taste. Guests can choose a classic fixed seating and dining time or a flexible, open seating schedule. And alternative dining always is available, including the elegant Pinnacle Grill and relaxed Lido Restaurant.

Culinary staff and guest chefs lead cooking classes and demonstrations in the onboard Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine, and, as part of the Explorations Speaker Series, special guest lecturers sail on each cruise to offer enriching perspectives on regional art, history and culture. The Explorations Café - powered by the New York Times - enables guests to stay connected to loved ones. Guests are also assured a good night’s sleep with the Mariner’s Dream stateroom amenities, including luxurious beds and linens.

When in port, guests can choose from a diversity of shore excursions including the exclusive Medallion Collection featuring Overland Adventures, Signature Collection private-car touring, visits to natural, architectural and technical masterpieces from the Wonders of the World Collection and rare and unusual experiences with the Encore Collection excursions.

Top Cruise Club

Book your Holland America cruise vacation and sail away to Scandinavia. Please feel free to contact Top Cruise Club at anytime to find great prices and to book your stateroom. Our Member Concierge will be sure to reserve your stay onboard a Holland America cruise ship. Our toll free number is 1-888-392-5643 or you may email us.

Top Cruise Club is an online community of avid and new cruisers who have come together to maximize their cruising experience. It provides you with the latest cruise news, ship reviews, information about popular destinations, and exceptional cruise value. You can also book your next cruise online or on the phone through your own Member Concierge. Top Cruise Clubs provides its members with all their cruising needs. Join Top Cruise Club’s free membership program, which provides you with an array of benefits, like FREE travel insurance. Click here to join now!

Princess Cruises’ New Season of Hawaiian Islands Sailings

Ashley — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:38:35 +0000

As Golden Princess begins a new season of sailings to the Hawaiian Islands, Princess Cruises passengers will find themselves immersed in all things Hawaii, with the culture, traditions, arts and tastes of the island paradise highlighted throughout their cruise.

Whether they’re attending demonstrations by local artisans, learning to play the ukulele, exploring historic attractions, or savoring regional cuisine in the dining room, the ship’s Hawai’i travelers will enjoy the aloha spirit each day.

“Our goal is to captivate our passengers with onboard experiences that capture the heart and soul of Hawai’i,” said Jan Swartz, Princess’ senior vice president. “We want to make sure that our guests go home with a deeper understanding of the islands and the people who live there.”

This year, Princess’ Hawaiian programs are engaging passengers with a variety of cultural presentations and demonstrations, interpretive lectures, folkloric performances, hands-on activities, Hawaiian cuisine, and a number of new Adventures Ashore excursion options throughout the islands. Among these Hawaiian experiences are:

In-Port Guest Artists – A variety of local artisans and performers will come aboard during select island port calls. Passengers will observe the unique expertise needed to create these truly Hawaiian arts, and may learn some craft skills themselves.

Kauai: Ni’ihau Shell Artists — The “forbidden” island of Ni’ihau is privately owned and largely closed to the rest of the world. Although outsiders generally cannot visit there, Princess passengers have the unique opportunity to share in the island’s traditional culture when some of Ni’ihau’s skilled artisans come onboard for a special shell lei making demonstration. Following an ancient art form, the native Hawaiian lei makers use tiny and delicate shells found only on the northern coast of Ni’ihau, creating pieces that are highly prized as fine jewelry. In a presentation exclusive to Princess, passengers are invited to meet the artists and watch as they demonstrate the intricate process and share history of the craft. Although these heirloom-quality pieces are not widely available in stores, those who wish to own one of these stunning lei will also have the opportunity to purchase them from the craftswomen while they are onboard in Kaua’i.

Hilo: Selected Artisans — In another presentation unique to Princess, native bone carver Dean Kaahanui comes aboard during some Big Island calls to present a workshop on the history of his craft and demonstrate the art of bone carving. During the workshop, he’ll also explain the inspiration for his work, which is often based on Hawaiian legends. After the demonstration, passengers also have an opportunity to purchase some of Kaahanui’s fine carvings. In Hilo, passengers may also have the opportunity to meet feather lei makers who will teach the ancient art of hulu lei.

Honolulu: Hula Show — Keiki (children) from the award-winning Halau Hula Olana, one of the islands’ most respected hula schools, perform onboard during Honolulu calls. These charming young dancers present an entertaining show that highlights the children’s commitment to learning their halau’s (school’s) unique hula tradition that has been passed down from generations of kumu (teachers), Hawaiian language and the stories of Hawai’i.

Naturalists and Lecturers – Passengers can also add to their knowledge and appreciation of the islands through a series of special presentations from guest lecturers and naturalists — many from prestigious organizations such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Park Service. These experts will provide insight on the wonders of the islands, including marine biology, whale migration, volcanoes, the islands’ unusual endemic species, Hawaiian culture and history, and local myths and legends.

Regional Hawaiian Cuisine – Hawai’i’s bountiful fare — including fresh fruits such as pineapples and mangos, unique fish and seafood, luau staples such as roast pig, and treats like coconut and macadamia nuts — star in Princess’ special Hawaiian regional cuisine selections. Princess chefs use the state’s abundance of unique flavors to serve up such dishes as Macadamia and Panko Crusted Mahimahi, Lehua Honey BBQ Pork Spareribs, and Luau Pork with Apricot Drippings. A festive Hawaiian Island Night celebration will also feature a full buffet feast loaded with a rich variety of local taste treats, including pupus, a fresh fruit carving station and tropical-themed desserts.

New Adventures Ashore – Several new shore excursion options debut this season, adding some enticing island activities to Princess’ line-up of nearly 100 Hawai’i tour choices. For those who want to indulge in island flavors, A Gourmet Tour of Volcanoes National Park (Hilo) offers the opportunity to not only enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, but also visit a local coffee mill, winery and artisanal candy company — the latter for tastings of fresh macadamia cookies. In Honolulu, passengers can enjoy the romantic Ali’i Dinner Cruise, a sunset sailing on the world’s largest Polynesian catamaran. In addition, Honolulu visitors can choose a new way to see Pearl Harbor with the Mighty Mo and Pacific Aviation Museum tour — featuring the battleship USS Missouri, where Japan surrendered to end World War II. On Maui, passengers can enjoy one of the state’s best snorkeling sites with the Molokini Crater Snorkel Adventure & SNUBA tour.

On Kauai, the new Grove Farm and Kauai Plantation Railway tour lets passengers discover the history of the Garden Isle with visits to Grove Farm, a beautifully preserved homestead and sugar plantation, plus ride the narrow gauge railway at Kilohana Plantation through fields of sugar cane, bananas, pineapples, papaya and coffee. Also on Kaua’i, passengers can explore an area usually inaccessible to the public with the Historic Haraguchi Rice Mill and Hanalei Taro Fields tour — featuring Hawaii’s only remaining rice mill and surrounding taro fields. Kaua’i visitors can also enjoy visits to the historic Kilauea Lighthouse and Limahuli Botanical Garden, a lush 17-acre garden complex set in a scenic 900-acre botanical preserve. Finally, passengers can opt for the Ultimate Island Adventure by Private Vehicle, where they can choose to explore Kaua’i’s north or south shore in the comfort of their own VIP luxury vehicle.

Passenger Activities – For passengers who want to immerse themselves further in Hawaiian culture, onboard instructors teach a number of classes throughout the cruise, including the opportunity to learn such local skills as orchid lei making, hula dancing (both traditional and contemporary), sarong tying, Hawaiian language and ukulele playing. Ukulele aficionados can even show off their new skills at the end of the cruise with a passenger talent show.

The Islands on Film and TV – The ship’s movie and television programs will also put passengers in the island mood with Hawaiian topics and stories. Princess partnered with the National Park Service to produce an exclusive video presentation on Hawai?i Volcanoes National Park that gives passengers a comprehensive preview of this spectacular attraction. Hawaiian-themed films have been added to the ships’ selection of recent Hollywood movies, with classics such as “From Here to Eternity” and documentaries such as “Riding Giants,” profiling the world’s top surfers. In addition, a selection of travel videos and documentaries give passengers a feel for the islands. Among them are a series of National Geographic presentations covering the islands’ unique species, Pearl Harbor and Hawaiian culture, as well as a variety of specials on local-interest topics.

For the 2008-09 season, Golden Princess sails to the Hawaiian Islands on 14 departures. The ship offers 14-day round-trip Hawai’i cruises from Los Angeles that include calls at Hilo, Honolulu, Kaua’i (Nawiliwili), Maui and Ensenada. The ship sails between October 1, 2008 and April 1, 2009.

Top Cruise Club

Book your Princess cruise vacation and sail away to paradise. Please feel free to contact Top Cruise Club at anytime to book your stateroom. Our Member Concierge will be sure to reserve your stay onboard a Princess cruise ship. Our toll free number is 1-888-392-5643 or you may email us.

Puerto Maya Re-Opens to Dock Carnival Cruise Ships

Ashley — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 13:18:35 +0000

Carnival Corporation & plc’s pier at Puerta Maya in Cozumel, Mexico - closed since being damaged by Hurricane Wilma in 2005 - will officially re-open when the 2,052-passenger Carnival Ecstasy and 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy visit the facility on Thursday, Oct. 16.

Representing an investment of more than $50 million, the new two-berth pier has been specifically constructed to withstand a threshold category 5 hurricane and can accommodate any ship among Carnival Corporation & plc’s various cruise brands. In addition to the newly rebuilt pier, Puerta Maya’s nine-acre cruise center, which features a wide variety of shops and restaurants, will also re-open, along with a four-acre transportation hub capable of accommodating dozens of taxis and tour buses. Four rental car facilities will be available, as well.

The Oct. 16 calls by the Carnival Fantasy and Carnival Ecstasy will be the first of 550 cruise-ship visits at Puerta Maya over the next year. In addition to calling at Puerta Maya, vessels from Carnival Corporation & plc brands will continue to utilize the other two piers in Cozumel. Collectively, these ships will bring an estimated 1.5 million visitors annually to Cozumel, who are expected to spend $126 million on the island each year.

“Epitomizing the ‘fun in the sun’ landside experience that is so closely associated with Caribbean cruising, Cozumel is the region’s most visited cruise ship destination by far. Its gorgeous beaches, a variety of retail outlets and restaurants, and excellent watersports opportunities are enhanced only by the gracious hospitality of its residents,” said Giora Israel, Carnival’s vice president of strategic planning and port development. “The re-opening of Carnival’s pier at Puerta Maya will provide cruise ship guests with easy and convenient access to all the wonders of this fascinating destination, along with unique on-site shopping and dining experiences,” he added.

Puerta Maya’s expansive cruise center houses 42 different outlets offering apparel, fine jewelry, artwork and other merchandise from such recognizable retailers as Goodmark Jewelers, Del Sol, Piranha Joe’s, Dufry, and Diamonds International. The facility also features 15 stand-alone carts where local merchants market colorful handmade crafts, costume jewelry and souvenirs. On-site dining options within the Puerta Maya complex include the Tres Amigos Bar, a new theme restaurant inspired by the 1986 hit movie starring Steve Martin, Chevy Chase and Martin Short.

The waterfront eatery - the first of its kind in the Caribbean - offers traditional Mexican fare, along with an extensive beverage menu. Also featured is Pancho’s Backyard, a new franchise from the popular downtown Cozumel eatery featuring magnificent ocean views, as well as Fat Tuesday, a waterfront bar offering frozen drinks and light snacks, along with a DJ and dance floor.

Other retail outlets at Puerta Maya include a pharmacy, convenience store, and international pay phones. There is also a newly constructed shore excursion pier, separate from the main pier, which allows for quick and convenient access to all water-bound excursions, as well as water-based transportation to and from the facility. The Puerta Maya pier and cruise center is located on the southwestern part of Cozumel, approximately five miles south of San Miguel, the island’s largest city.

Carnival Corporation & plc is the largest cruise vacation group in the world, with a portfolio of cruise brands in North America, Europe and Australia, comprised of Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, The Yachts of Seabourn, AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Ibero Cruises, Ocean Village, P&O Cruises and P&O Cruises Australia.

Together, these brands operate 88 ships totaling more than 167,000 lower berths with 18 new ships scheduled to be delivered between October 2008 and June 2012. Carnival Corporation & plc also operates Holland America Tours and Princess Tours, the leading tour companies in Alaska and the Canadian Yukon. Traded on both the New York and London Stock Exchanges, Carnival Corporation & plc is the only group in the world to be included in both the S&P 500 and the FTSE 100 indices.

Top Cruise Club

Book your next cruise vacation onboard Carnival Cruise Lines and sail away to paradise. Please feel free to contact Top Cruise Club at anytime to book your stateroom. Our Member Concierge will be sure to reserve your stay onboard a Carnival cruise ship. Our toll free number is 1-888-392-5643 or you may email us.

Hold the Mail

Ashley — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 19:22:12 +0000

I’m actually borrowing my tip from something I saw on TV. Thieves look for an over-stuffed mail box as a sure sign that the homeowner is away. You can solve this problem by getting a “Hold Mail” card, either from your post office or at usps.com. Mail that accumulates while you are gone is held at the post office until the date you tell them to deliver it. Now you can be worry free when cruising.

– Jonathan S. Los Angeles, CA.

Name Cards for New Friends

Ashley — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 19:21:42 +0000

One thing we like about cruising is the people we meet onboard. Ever notice that, when it’s time to exchange contact information, no one has a pen? So here’s what we do. Our local printer makes cards with our name, address, phone number and email address. They’re very inexpensive. We carry them with us and give them to our new cruise friends.

–Mr. & Mrs. Tucker New York, NY

Disney Cruises Cross the Atlantic in 2010

Ashley — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:02:14 +0000

In response to guest demand, Disney Cruise Line will reposition one of its ships, Disney Magic, to Europe for an unprecedented five-month season of Northern European and Mediterranean cruises in 2010.

With a wide variety of European itineraries in 2010, families have the ability to explore exotic and unexpected destinations with the safety and comfort of traveling with Disney Cruise Line, the leader in family cruising.

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will offer a 12-night Northern European Capitals cruise, where guests can experience breathtaking fjords, historic city centers and Viking lore at enchanting Scandinavian ports such as Oslo, Copenhagen and Stockholm. The ship will also sail to Warnemunde, Germany, gateway to Berlin, and to St. Petersburg, Russia. The Disney Magic will overnight in St. Petersburg, allowing Disney Cruise Line guests time to experience the city known as the “Cultural Capital of Russia” or use the second day to book a shore excursion to Moscow.

“The Northern European Capitals itinerary provides our guests with an amazing collection of destinations to explore,” said Disney Cruise Line President Tom McAlpin. “We’re excited to bring the rich history, culture and folklore these ports offer to life for our guests in a family-friendly way only Disney Cruise Line can deliver.”

Departing out of Dover, England, the Disney Magic will sail a total of four 12-night cruises to the Northern European capitals in June and July 2010. Rates for the 12-night Northern European Capitals itinerary start at $3,649 per person for a category 11 stateroom.

Book-ending the summer season in Northern Europe, the Disney Magic will once again return to the Mediterranean with 10- and 11-night cruises, but with three new ports of call not offered when Disney Cruise Line last sailed the Mediterranean. In addition to popular ports in Italy, France and Spain, the Disney Magic will visit Tunis, in Northern Africa, the island nation of Malta, and Corsica, an island oasis off the southern coast of France known as the birthplace of Napoleon.

“The response from guests who sailed on our Mediterranean voyages in 2007 was overwhelmingly positive,” said McAlpin. “We’re thrilled to bring the ship back and look to make the 2010 season in the Mediterranean even better, with new destinations and more one-of-a-kind Disney experiences for our guests.”

Departing out of Barcelona, Spain, the Disney Magic will sail four 10-night and four 11-night cruises in the Mediterranean in April, May, August and September. Rates for the 10- and 11-night Mediterranean cruises start at $2,529 per person for a category 11 stateroom.

Disney Cruise Line will also offer four repositioning cruises including two 14-night transatlantic voyages, a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Dover, England, and an eight-night cruise from Dover back to Barcelona.

Disney Wonder 2010 Schedule

The Disney Magic isn’t the only Disney ship embarking on new itineraries in 2010. For the summer of 2010, the Disney Wonder will shift to four- and five-night cruises sailing to Nassau, Key West and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The shift is designed to accommodate guests looking for slightly longer cruises with Disney Cruise Line while children are enjoying their summer break. Rates for the special five-night voyages to Key West or two stops at Castaway Cay start at $899 per person, while the four-night voyage begins at $849 per person for a category 11 stateroom.

Top Cruise Club

Book your European cruise vacation onboard Disney Cruise Line and sail away to paradise. Please feel free to contact Top Cruise Club at anytime to book your stateroom. Our Member Concierge will be sure to reserve your stay onboard a Disney cruise ship. Our toll free number is 1-888-392-5643 or you may email us.

New Guest Experiences Created at Carnival

Ashley — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:30:04 +0000

Carnival Cruise Lines has created a new department focusing solely on developing innovative new on-board product opportunities and enhancing existing aspects of the “Fun Ship” vacation experience.

Overseeing the new guest experience and business development effort will be Christine Arnholt, a 17-year Carnival veteran who has served as the company’s vice president of marketing services for the past eight years.

In her new role, Arnholt will assume the title of vice president of guest experience and business development. She will report to Carnival’s Executive Vice President of Marketing and Guest Experience Ruben Rodriguez.

“The ‘Fun Ship’ experience continues to evolve and this new department will be responsible for developing new and exciting on-board features and programming while building upon our proven strategies that will enable us to continue to deliver fun, memorable vacations for our guests,” said Rodriguez. “We are grateful that someone as talented and knowledgeable as Chris will be heading up this new team. Chris’ years of experience, keen insight into consumer trends and in-depth knowledge of our brand will be of tremendous value as we move forward with this important initiative,” he added.

Arnholt will oversee a team of talented product development professionals, including Mike Hunssinger, a five-year veteran of Carnival’s revenue management team, who will serve as director of guest experience and business development.

Another key member of the department is Senior Director Sara Rosenberg, whose extensive experience includes leading branding and product development opportunities at Burger King and The Miami Herald. For the past five years, Rosenberg was also the owner and president of Skirt Smart, a branding and innovation consulting group which focused on branding, product development and consumer research for companies within the restaurant and hospitality industries.

Additionally, Renata Ribeiro will be joining Carnival on Oct. 15, also as a senior director. Ribeiro has spent the past three years spearheading the strategic planning and commercial innovation efforts for Natura, Brazil’s largest cosmetic company, and five years in the consumer goods and retail practice at The Boston Consulting Group. She has extensive experience in product development and consumer experience, for both consumer goods companies and retailers.

Until Carnival’s current search for a new marketing chief is completed, Arnholt will continue in her current marketing responsibilities.

Carnival is the world’s largest and most popular cruise line, with 22 “Fun Ships” operating voyages of three to 18 days in length to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, Canada, New England, Bermuda, Europe and South America. The line currently has two 130,000-ton ships on order - Carnival Dream, set to debut Sept. 21, 2009, and Carnival Magic, scheduled to enter service in June 2011.

Top Cruise Club

Book your cruise vacation onboard Carnival Cruise Lines and sail away to paradise. Please feel free to contact Top Cruise Club at anytime to book your stateroom. Our Member Concierge will be sure to reserve your stay onboard a “Fun Ship”. Our toll free number is 1-888-392-5643 or you may email us.